Aix-en-Provence, or Aix for those in the know, is one of these enchanting towns in the South of France where time seems to stand still. The South of France is a land of enchantment, where the stunning and warm Mediterranean Sea meets rolling hillsides covered with lavender fields and vineyards. It’s a place where the warm sun-kissed air leads you to indulge in the simple pleasures of life.
From the charming coastal towns with their colorful fishing boats, to the ancient hilltop villages with their narrow cobblestone streets and ochre-colored buildings, every corner of this region is historical and charming.
I’ll try to keep it short and tame my enthusiasm about this place, but here are a few ideas of what not to miss should you visit Aix for a weekend.
Let’s start with the food, shall we?
Aix-en-Provence has an abundance of restaurants that serve up traditional Provençal dishes with a modern twist. For a fancy dinner, head to Mickäel Féval, a Michelin-starred restaurant that made its reputation in just a few short years.. Or, for a more casual meal, try Les Deux Garçons, a historic cafe that’s been a favorite of artists and intellectuals for more than 200 years.
Éxploration
Now that you’ve fueled up, it’s time to explore the city. Did you know that Aix-en-Provence was founded by the Romans in 123 B.C.? That means there’s no shortage of history and culture to discover. Take a stroll through the old town and admire the stunning architecture, including the Cathédrale du Saint Sauveur and the elegant Hôtel de Ville.
For art lovers, the Musée Granet is a must-visit. This museum houses an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures, including works by Cézanne, Picasso and Van Gogh. And if you’re a fan of impressionist art, be sure to check out the Atelier Paul Cézanne, where the famous artist painted some of his most iconic works.
Aix is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Rent a car and take a scenic drive through the Luberon, a picturesque region of Provence that’s known for its lavender fields and charming hilltop villages. Or, head to Cassis, a seaside town that’s famous for its calanques (coves), stunning rocky inlets that are perfect for swimming and hiking.
Rosé
And when the sun goes down, the city comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Sip on a cocktail at Le Bar des Prêcheurs, a stylish bar that’s popular with the local hip crowd.
This is usually the bar where I declare the Aperol Spritz season officially open, aka the first ray of sunshine of the year.
Or, if you’re in the mood for live music, check out Le Mistral Jazz Club, which hosts regular concerts featuring some of the best jazz musicians in the region.
Are you getting increasingly nervous as you scroll to the end of the post and you haven’t read anything about rosé wine yet? I got you, my man, Don’t you worry.
Hop in your car and head to the Chateau de l’Escarelle, where you can sip on some of the most delicious rosé while admiring the stunning mountain views. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, you should head to the Château La Coste, where the wine is as exquisite as the contemporary art installations scattered throughout the vineyard.
And if you’re in the mood for some organic wine, check out the Domaine Les Terres Promises, where the owner’s passion for biodynamic farming is reflected in every glass. So grab a glass (or three, who are you kidding) and drink in the beauty of the Provence countryside.
So there you have it – Aix-en-Provence in a nutshell. Well, now you know all about Aix-en-Provence – the city that’s so charming, it could make a croissant blush. With mouth-watering cuisine, captivating history, delicious wine and breathtaking views, Aix-en-Provence has everything you need for a weekend of adventure, relaxation, and indulgence.
Charlotte Laborie grew up in England, Belgium and Switzerland. Charlotte then moved to Paris and graduated from Sciences Po Paris. She is still based in Paris, where she works in marketing.
